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In theoretical physics, the superconformal algebra is a graded Lie algebra or superalgebra that combines the conformal algebra and supersymmetry. In two dimensions, the superconformal algebra is infinite-dimensional. In higher dimensions, superconformal algebras are finite-dimensional and generate the superconformal group (in two Euclidean dimensions, the Lie superalgebra does not generate any Lie supergroup).
Superconformal algebra in dimension greater than 2[]
The conformal group of the -dimensional space is and its Lie algebra is . The superconformal algebra is a Lie superalgebra containing the bosonic factor and whose odd generators transform in spinor representations of . Given Kač's classification of finite-dimensional simple Lie superalgebras, this can only happen for small values of and . A (possibly incomplete) list is
in 3+0D thanks to ;
in 2+1D thanks to ;
in 4+0D thanks to ;
in 3+1D thanks to ;
in 2+2D thanks to ;
real forms of in five dimensions
in 5+1D, thanks to the fact that spinor and fundamental representations of are mapped to each other by outer automorphisms.
Superconformal algebra in 3+1D[]
According to [1][2] the superconformal algebra with supersymmetries in 3+1 dimensions is given by the bosonic generators , , , , the U(1) R-symmetry, the SU(N) R-symmetry and the fermionic generators , , and . Here, denote spacetime indices; left-handed Weyl spinor indices; right-handed Weyl spinor indices; and the internal R-symmetry indices.
There are two possible algebras with minimal supersymmetry in two dimensions; a Neveu–Schwarz algebra and a Ramond algebra. Additional supersymmetry is possible, for instance the N = 2 superconformal algebra.
^West, Peter C. (1997). "Introduction to rigid supersymmetric theories". arXiv:hep-th/9805055.
^
Gates, S. J.; Grisaru, Marcus T.; Rocek, M.; Siegel, W. (1983). "Superspace, or one thousand and one lessons in supersymmetry". Frontiers in Physics. 58: 1–548. arXiv:hep-th/0108200. Bibcode:2001hep.th....8200G.